TNMOA Calls for Transparent Inquiry and Systemic Reforms
A final-year postgraduate (PG) student from the Department of General Medicine at Government Sivaganga Medical College Hospital (MCH) in Madurai suffered a massive cerebrovascular accident (stroke) and underwent emergency thrombolysis. The incident has sparked concern within the medical fraternity, with allegations that prolonged mental stress linked to departmental and administrative issues may have contributed to the medical emergency.
The Tamil Nadu Medical Officers Association (TNMOA), State Postgraduate Wing, raised serious concerns following the incident. According to the association, a preliminary internal assessment suggested that the student had been under sustained mental pressure for an extended period. The stress was reportedly associated with departmental functioning and certain administrative practices.
Citing inputs from within the institution, TNMOA alleged that the working environment in the department may have played a role in aggravating the trainee’s mental strain. The association emphasized that postgraduate doctors often face intense workloads and high expectations, which, if compounded by administrative challenges, can severely impact mental well-being.
In light of the incident, the TNMOA PG Wing formally urged the Dean of Government Sivaganga Medical College to initiate a fair, impartial, and transparent inquiry into the functioning of the department. The association stressed that identifying any lapses or systemic shortcomings is crucial to preventing similar incidents in the future.
The association further called for prompt corrective measures if the inquiry uncovers deficiencies. It underlined that safeguarding the mental and physical health of postgraduate trainees must be treated as a priority, given their critical role in patient care and hospital services.
Additionally, TNMOA appealed to the Director of Medical Education (DME), Tamil Nadu, to institutionalize monthly grievance redressal meetings for postgraduate students across all medical colleges in the state. The association argued that a structured and regular forum would allow PG doctors to voice concerns and seek timely resolutions in a supportive environment.
Medical professionals across India have increasingly voiced concerns about mounting mental health challenges within the community. Earlier reports highlighted that the Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) received over 300 calls on its Mental Health Helpline within just a few months of its launch, reflecting the scale of distress among doctors and medical students.
FAIMA noted that a significant portion of the calls related to exam-related stress, especially among aspirants preparing for NEET PG and NEET SS. Junior residents reported being overworked and facing workplace challenges, while senior doctors cited service-related and interpersonal issues. Some female doctors also shared pregnancy-related concerns, underscoring the multifaceted pressures confronting medical professionals today.
